Frank Carroll dead at 85: Legendary figure skating coach who worked with Michelle Kwan passes away

Frank Carroll, the legendary figure skater and coach, has died at the age of 85.

His passing was announced by the US Figure Skating Association on Sunday. 

According to USA Today, Carroll had been battling cancer and passed away in Palm Springs, California.

The Figure Skating Association said in a statement: ‘U.S. Figure Skating mourns the loss of coaching legend Frank Carroll. 

‘A member of the World and U.S. Figure Skating Halls of Fame, Frank was instrumental in the careers of numerous Olympic and World champions and many future Hall of Famers.’

Carroll coached Michelle Kwan, along with other notable names such as Evan Lysacek, Timothy Goebel and Linda Fratianne.

Carroll coached Kwan to the 1994 World junior title, four senior world crowns and nine national titles. Kwan also won a silver medal at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Japan.

Kwan, who is now the US ambassador to Belize, spoke to USA Today upon the news of Carroll’s death, saying: ‘ For over 10 years Frank was by my side − coaching and mentoring me to be the best skater and person that I can be.

‘He bestowed upon me a wealth of knowledge and history of the sport he loved so much. Off the ice and over the years, he became much more than just a coach. 

‘I know he’s changed the lives of thousands of skaters for the better, and I’m grateful that I’m one of them and I wouldn’t be here without his guidance. I love and miss Frank very much.’